Using spatial augmented reality in synchronous collaborative design applications in architectural design training

Abstract

This article examines applications of Spatial Augmented Reality (SAR) in architectural and engineering collaboration. These applications can be split into four SAR configurations supported by an innovative software program (SketSha) which enables remote sharing of graphic documents and annotations in real time; remote expert consultation, collaborative design, project review and group evaluation are all implemented in collaborative design training. Analysis of how SAR affects instrumented training activities is qualitatively conducted on four axes: (1) the status of the object being collaboratively designed; (2) the status of the document as an intermediary object for collaboration; (3) the status of the participants in aiding collective intelligence to emerge and (4) the status of workspace as we question the co-presence / remote dichotomy in synchronous relations. © 2013 Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg.